Three men and one child were killed in less than 24 hours in three separate crashes on Central West roads already during the holidays.

As the break comes to an end, police are conducting a high visibility operation that will continue until Monday across regional and metropolitan roads.

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Drivers can expect to see police conducting speed enforcement duties and random breath testing to ensure compliance with the road rules.

Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander, Assistant Commissioner Karen Webb, urged people to think of other road users before they get behind the wheel.

"Sadly, there has been 170 people killed on our roads this year and we do not want to see that figure increase," she said.

"We encourage drivers to be patient, slow down, put away your mobile phones and don't drink drive or consume illicit substances.

"Driver fatigue is one of our biggest killers, which means all drivers should be well-rested before they start their journey. If you are tired, stop and have a break.

Minister for Regional Roads and Acting Minister for Roads Paul Toole said road safety was everyone's responsibility.

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"When you get behind the wheel remember your behaviour can have a life-long impact on you, your family and other road users," he said.

"Worryingly, we have seen a spike in the road toll during the first half of July with 17 fatalities in the first 15 days. 65 per cent of those fatalities have been speed related - with speeding continuing to be the largest contributing factor for fatalities on our roads this year."

Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott said 17 children had been killed so far this year in road-related incidents.

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"This should be a wake up call to all drivers to step up now so that the school holidays don't end with the unnecessary and avoidable loss of more lives," he said.

"Police will be out in full force on our roads to detect and stop high risk and irresponsible driving behaviour - so if you're disobeying the road rules, look out."

Anyone with information about dangerous driving behaviours is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.